Corruption's former lair in Argentina becomes a greenhouse factory

In El Calafate, Santa Cruz, the former headquarters of Lázaro Báez's company, Austral Construcciones, has been reborn as a hub for hydroponic greenhouse production. The provincial government, under Claudio Vidal, acquired the site and established Santa Cruz Puede S.A.U. to drive productive activities and generate employment.

During the inauguration of the mobile hydroponic modules, Governor Vidal declared, "We buried the corruption that was in this place to bet on the productive future." The initiative aims to provide training and employment, with the first five modules already purchased by the province. These modules are designed for year-round production, optimizing water use, a crucial factor in Patagonia's climate.

Each module, costing $18,000, is equipped to produce leafy greens and herbs for community dining halls. "The request was specific: to develop modules whose production is adapted to the province's climate and the consumption of the dining halls," explained Manuel Gil, the company's manager of Development and Innovation. The system is designed for efficiency, with each unit capable of producing 350 plants every 60 days and also offering trays for hydroponic green fodder.

This project combines technology, training, and cooperative efforts, offering an adaptable, turnkey solution for Santa Cruz. Models with solar panels are also available, showcasing a commitment to sustainable and responsive agricultural practices in the region.